Communities in Tobago East can once again enjoy their very own aquatic centre.
The Kendal Aquatic Facility was recommissioned following renovation works that cost the Tobago House of Assembly just over $2 million.
The facility includes two pools, a 100-seat pavilion, and other amenities.
During the recommissioning ceremony on Thursday, Chief Secretary Farley Augustine mandated the Division of Education to ensure all of the island’s students learn to swim.
“I am challenging you all for us to work with agencies such as the YMCA in having an even more robust and inclusive programme so that we can ensure that by a defined date all of Tobago’s students and young people can actually swim.”
Mr. Augustine said the facility will provide opportunities for students of all ages.
“I know that this will form part of the physical education curriculum for students who are doing PE at the CXC level. They will enjoy the use of this facility in particular and Black Rock down at the western end of the island. It’s also an opportunity to schedule quite regularly all of the classes in our Primary School. We have to also engage those in our Early Childhood Care and Education Programme.”
THA Secretary of Education, Zorisha Hackett, stressed that the facility belongs to the people of Tobago East. She added that the benefits of this piece of infrastructure take education beyond the classroom.
“It is a space where we can develop your critical skills such as swimming and water safety while also learning the discipline and focus that is required in competitive sport and physical fitness. These lessons will definitely serve you well in every aspect of your lives.”
Project Manager Shem Hercules explained the facility was originally commissioned in 2015 at a cost of $19 million. Under the new Tobago House of Assembly administration, restoration works began in 2022 and were completed in November 2024.